|
DPCA BREEDERS EDUCATION Q & A - 2003 PAGE 2 |
Q: from Cathy Tilley
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
My suggestion is to see another Vet that specializes in breeding.
Q: from Jim Gooss
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Most top brand dog foods are fine
for most dogs, however some dogs may have an allergy to some of the
ingredients. If the diarrhea is ONLY caused when feeding this food,
common sense tells you to discontinue it.
I would however take a small sample of the bloody stool in to the Vet as well
as take your dog for a complete examination. Could be hookworm or
whipworms or coccidiosis or Giardia. Many things may cause bloody
diarrhea.
Do not waste time. See your
Veterinarian. It could be quite serious.
Q: from Angie M
*** *** ***
Comments: Rottweiler
My 6 month old Rottie recently has had hair loss. I asked my vet and he said that it is only a food allergy. Others say it is mange. How would you know if it is mange or a food allergy?
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
Hi, My three month old puppy has suffered
conjunctivitis for over a month. The vet gave her some antibiotics, but they did
not work. I took her back again, and he told me not to worry about it, that it
will go away. But it is still there. Is this normal? What should I do? Any help
will be greatly appreciated.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
I would treat this until it is cured. I don't know what kind of medicine that your vet gave you but you may need try something different. in the meantime use more of what he gave you.
Usually conjunctivitis clears up pretty fast. Maybe it is something that is causing conjunctivitis such as an inverted eyelid or dry eye or something.
Keep the eyes flushed out and clean (do this at least twice a day) and maybe get a second opinion. I don't know what else to tell you.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
No Liz, This is not normal. I'd take her to another Vet a.s.a.p.
For staph bumps I mix 1 part bleach to 4 parts water, a few drops of dish soap or dog shampoo (whatever you are comfortable with) and some baby oil or Keri lotion. Wash their faces with this mixture after they eat.
This prevents staph bumps and will get rid of them. This treatment was given to me years ago by a vet. Since that time I have improvised the formula to do even more. I am sure that this will help. Good luck.
Subject: Rottweiler
I have a problem breeding my three year old Rottweiler. I tried breeding her
five times already and nothing happened. It is her season now and although she
is kind of fat, could she still be pregnant?
A: from Marj
Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
I think that you need to see a veterinarian and if she is not pregnant you need to see a reproductive specialist type of veterinarian. Be sure that she is in good physical condition at the time of breeding which also means that she should not be fat. Perhaps you need to have a thyroid panel and a number of other tests done on her as well. Its even possible that she is not being bred at the correct time in her cycle. There could be any number of varied reasons. She is only three years old so you still have plenty of time.
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
My Husband and I have a 9 month old blue male we are in the process of registering with the AKC. We have a true love for the breed. We would like to breed him. What age is appropriate and what educational resources are out there to prepare us for breeding? Also, what is the best way to advertise for breeding?
His markings are beautiful! He will weigh around 90 pounds. Please advise. Thanks.
I am sorry to be so long in answering your
question but it does require a detailed answer.
First of all, breeding dogs in general is both a responsibility and an art. By
art I mean that a person must spend a lot of time learning quite a lot about the
Doberman before a breeding ever takes place.
At 9 months your dog is too young to be bred. By that I don't mean that he cannot breed and sire puppies but that he is too young to do a lot of the temperament and health testing that should be done on all breeding stock before being bred. That health testing consists of Von Willebrands Disease (VWD) testing, a full thyroid panel, hips and elbows x-rayed, CERF test done on his eyes and last but not least, his heart should be monitored with a 24 hour holter monitor or at least an eco-cardiogram and a sonogram. All this testing should be done due to the inherent health problems in the breed that make it imperative for us to routinely test all breeding stock.
For temperament tests, the DPCA has a WAE (working aptitude evaluation) which is a series of exercises to test the dogs on all of the descriptive words in our standard pertaining to the Doberman temperament.
Secondly, you need to study and learn the Doberman Standard to perfection so you can determine and evaluate your Doberman's good qualities and his not so good qualities, both temperamentally and conformationally (i.e. - his bone structure, angulation, muscling, et cetera.
You need to know as much as possible about your dog so you can determine which females you can accept for your blue dog and which females you should not accept. For example, if your dog has a fault, and they all do, you will need to breed him to an animal that is correct in that deviation whether it is a temperament flaw or a conformation flaw. The same works for health. If your dog is VWD carrier for example, you would need to breed him to a female that is clear or if your dog is low thyroid, you would want to breed him to a female that is normal thyroid. If your dog is sound sensitive you would want a female that is not sound sensitive or if your dog is lacking heavy bone, you would want to breed to a female who is not lacking in bone.
Needless to say you would have to learn all that you can so that you can make this kind of an evaluation and these kinds of decisions about whether or not you can breed your Doberman to a given female if at all.
Try to find a mentor in your area (I can possibly recommend someone) to evaluate your dog. In this manner you can find out if he is show quality and if he is, you may want to consider showing him in order for prospective female owners to see him and ask about using him at stud. Normally the female owners look for the male and come to you, not the other way around.
I am sure that there is a lot more that I could tell you as I could actually write an book about this. At any rate, here are some of the articles I recommend that you read, starting with the Doberman Standard of perfection.
The following are some articles about the
Standard that will help you to learn it in depth:
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/dobes_in_detail.htm
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/doberman.html
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/judging_dobermans.htm
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/doberman_on_the_move.htm
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/how_the_standard_works.htm
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/whys_of_standard_size.htm
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/soundness.htm
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/colorinheritance.htm
The following are some on Doberman temperament:
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/defining_temperament.htm
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/suspicion.htm
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/choices.htm
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/breeders_tools.htm
After you breed your dog, if you decide to do so, you will need to learn even more because you are equally as responsible for the puppies as the breeder (owner of the female) is.
Since you have a blue Doberman there is another article that you should read too. It can be found at http://www.seattle-attorney.com/storm/sup.html. There are many links within this article that will help you learn all about the blue and fawn Dobermans and the individual problems that they can have.
Remember that there are many more articles on this site that can be read and/or printed out including those about a variety of health problems that plague our Dobermans. Please don't hesitate to browse through the site to find more. I hope that this helps you and again, if you have more questions, feel free to ask.
Subject: Training Older Dobes
I read your online training tips on showing Dobes which were quite informative. We have rescued 2 females (1 1/2 yrs old) from our local animal shelter and could use some training tips for everyday life -- specifically, one of the girls gets quite excited when we encounter other dogs on our walks -- we're working it out slowly, but she still gets very excited to see other dogs (there are lots in our neighborhood), is not aggressive to them but wants to play, play and will bark and bark, jump, pull -- as I said she's getting better slowly but there must be something else I can do to help the process. Sometimes she will also drop low and bark at people -- it's not a real protective stance, but I'm not sure whether she wants them to play or stay away -- the bark is very different, it's longer & deeper. Can you recommend anything or a good information site ? Many, many thanks.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
I think that training a dog to calm down in their exuberance over other dogs takes time and if your girl is making progress then just keep doing what you are doing. Another exercise that I like to do is to stop walking and go up to my excited dog and stroke her/him very lightly from the head down to the tail telling him to relax or calm down (some common word) until she does and then continue on, doing this every single time she pulls or whatever.
If her hair is standing up on her back, stroke it down and relax her. Do the same when she does the drop low thing. A dog will do what I call a play bow and bark more excitedly. This drop low thing sounds a little different, like she is not sure whether to be aggressive or submissive or shy (unsure of herself).
Just have her stand while you do the stroking thing to calm her down. After she calms down, walk her to the person and encourage her to make friends or "check it out" and ask the person to pet her and show her it is okay that he or she is there. Don't pull her away from the situation because by doing so you will basically encourage her to be afraid or leery.
I hope that this helps and if you need more help or have another question, please ask.
I have a bitch that is four months of age. Please tell me how can I start my training.
Q: from
Kathy Fontana
Date: 28
May 2003
Time:
13:50:36
Comments: Showing The Bite
I loved your tips on showing. Do you have any ideas for a bitch that has no problem showing her bite to anyone until we step up to the judge? I have had strangers and people I know at class, at home and in our yard go over her with no problem...until we get in the real ring. I wind up showing the bite to the judge but my bitch gives me a hard time.
I have had judges say they really like her and can I get her trained
Any help would be greatly appreciated. I have three other dogs at home that are finished and they have all had their funny quirks but I have never experienced this particular quirk before. I somehow think she is outsmarting me and I don't want her to get excused from the ring for something I know she can do.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
From what I can gather from your post, you are
showing the bite to the judge. If your dog isn't letting you do so, then
just let the Judge do it. It might be faster and easier than you fighting
with her. As a judge myself I know I can usually do it much quicker than a lot
of exhibitors but I will allow them to present the bite to me.
Don't make a big deal of it with your dog. Make sure you really know how
to do it so the
judge can see properly and that it's done correctly.
Give your dog a piece of bait (at home) if she allows you to do it. If she's playing games with you and looking for bait, then dispense with any bait.
Only practice ONCE at home every few days. There is no need to keep doing it thereby making a big deal of the whole issue.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
I just went through this on a bitch that didn't want to open her mouth for the judge to see the back teeth. I just kept working her and gave her the command "open" and then praised her, "good girl" when she did it. Do it all of the time and in every situation. Have a lot of people do it and do it with strangers and do it just before she goes into the ring. Try to "win" all of the time. Set her up into a ring like situation, like at class.
When you do have people do it have them do it just like a judge would. Do it yourself too, a lot. Make sure that you are not unconsciously digging your fingers into her gums.
For awhile I asked the judges to tell her open too. It took a while but she did get over it. It sounds as though your bitch is doing the same as mine was so just keep at it.
Do you think that it hurts her when her mouth is opened and she is anticipating pain or is she just being stubborn? Does she like the ball. If so hand her the ball and say "open"...... "good girl' when she takes it or food. Figure out something to do with her mouth that she likes and use the commands and hopefully she will associate both exercises as good.
Q: from
Peter
Date: 18
Apr 2003
Time:
04:13:36
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
What age male Dobie may work out best with an existing dominant 6 yr old
Shepherd?
We would eventually want them to be able to co exist together once they get used
to each other.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
It seems that we just answered this question. You can eventually have them co-exist together. Introduce them carefully and until the new puppy gets older, the two dogs must have your supervision while they are together. Separate them when you are not present. Train them to respect one another and give them equal time and encouragement. Encourage the older dog to play gentle and the puppy shouldn't be allowed to be too puppy rough and obnoxious so to speak. Allow the Shepherd to gently teach the puppy.
We have answered this question before and if you can find and read some of the answers I think it will help you.
Q: from
Gerry
Date: 15
Apr 2003
Time:
13:44:53
Comments: Second Dog
I am thinking about getting a rescue Dobie later this year. I currently
have a 1 year old, neutered male. He loves other dogs so that won't be a
problem. Obviously I'd be getting a female.
I have a couple of questions, though.
First, how old should the new dog be? I've read, that you have to pick one
to be dominant, and usually, the one that' already there is the best choice.
Would getting a female that is older than him make that more difficult?
Kane is an inside dog except when we aren't home. He has a 10 x 10 Kennel
in the backyard with a dog house and wading pool to cool off in.
I am guessing it wouldn't be a good idea to put another dog in there? I presume I'd have to put together another Kennel if/when we get a second dog or is it okay to put them together?
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
In my opinion you are much better off starting with as young a dog as possible, preferably a puppy.
I certainly wouldn't suggest putting another dog in Kane's kennel ... I would strongly recommend you put up another kennel right alongside the first one.
Actually, to be quite honest, I would never leave my dogs unattended while I sent to work, whether kennelled or not.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
I think that your plan of getting a female that is a little older then him is a good plan. I also think that you would be wise to separate them while you are gone away from home since the areas you have for them are small. If you had a bigger fenced area for them to run and play while you are at home, that would be nice (instead of in the house). I say this because Dobermans, as you know, have lots of energy and they love to run and play and will need a bigger area to do this in.
I believe you are going to have to play some of these questions out by ear and work things out according to the dogs themselves and their needs and how they get along. The decisions that you will be making will be depending on the situations that will arise after you have the new dog. Having two pens are a good idea at this point though.
If left alone for great periods of time they could get noisy so you may have to figure a way to remedy that situation and any other situations that may crop up in the future.
Also, I have no idea know why you would have to pick one that is dominant. You already know what Kane's personality and temperament is like, so pick one that would work with Kane.
Q: from
Peter
Date: 15
Apr 2003
Time:
03:26:11
Comments: Doberman Temperament
Could you please advise exactly how to introduce a new Doberman, to be purchased
from a breeder, into a household of 2 adults, no children, and one dominate
intact female Shepherd.
The Shepherd is from a European Schutzhund bloodline, about 6 yrs old and will be soon spayed. She has obedience training only.
The soon-to-be-purchased Dobie could be a puppy or a 1 or 2 yr old male.
We are trying to avoid potential injury to us or the dogs.
The Shepherd had been living successfully with a
female, very passive Dobie, who died. They had maybe three non-injury fights
since we got the
Shepherd at 3 months of age.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
I would be hesitant to introduce a young puppy or an older dog into a household with a dominant 6 year old female and still feel life will be peaceful. It's very possible that the older bitch will accept the puppy but I'd be very afraid to try it.
If I were you I'd wait until the older bitch passes away or only do so if you are prepared to separate them in case she doesn't accept another dog … whether as a puppy or older.
Q: from
Crystal
Date: 15
Apr 2003
Time:
02:39:59
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
If you breed two dogs together that both are VWD carriers wouldn't there
offspring be affected and have the disease? I've seen that many well know
breeders do this. Do they not care about if they have a puppy or two has
VWD as long as they have some really beautiful puppies that aren't. Thanks.
A: from
Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
Yes there is a 25% chance of
that...however, you cannot throw the baby out with the bathwater. So long as
that breeder tests the offspring and doesn't breed affected to affected one can
only go up. That is the objective of testing. The percentage of *clinically*
affected dogs is slim to none, 7% of the entire Doberman population in the world
as a matter of fact.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
This has been a hot topic for years.
All I can say is, you don't throw the baby out with the bath water.
Affected dogs can "sometimes" manifest bleeding. Most times they live a
normal life and never have any problem. Breeders have no doubt been
breeding Affected to Affected for generations without incident before the vWD
disease was ever hear of or before we had a DNA to predict it.
You have a good chance of getting some Affected puppies out of breeding two
carriers, but on the other hand, it may not happen. You would get 50%
Carriers, 25% Affected and 25% Clear BUT this is based on hundreds of litters
from the same two parents. It is equally as possible that you may get a whole
litter of Affecteds, a whole litter of Clears or a whole litter of Carriers.
It all depends on how the genes fall.
As to breeders caring about the puppies, let me just say that most breeders do
all that they can and more to insure that they have healthy puppies. We try to
take into consideration many factors such as temperament, conformation, health
and type. To insure that you get the best you can breed, a breeder should
be willing to breed to only the best (that features ALL of these qualities).
Q: from
Andrea Roper
Date: 15
Apr 2003
Time:
00:50:26
Comments: Male or female???
I have been interested with the Doberman and the Beauceron breeds for over a
year. I have also raised Labs for a long time.
Making the transition from a more easy-going dog to a dog that is more protective, arouses my curiosity about which would be the more docile and less protective sex in the Doberman breed.
Please keep in mind that I live with a 9 year old brother. I appreciate any information you can supply...
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
In my experience of thirty plus years with this breed I would have to say that a good part of the time it is the male that is more docile and loving by far.
Please watch this page on our site for other replies to your query...
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
I personally don't think that there is too much difference in male and female Dobermans in being protective. You can monitor their protectiveness to a degree.
Dobermans are protective and they are a barking breed (they talk). Dobermans are supposed to be obedient so you can teach them to work into your life within reason. You can diminish their protectiveness by teaching them not to bark and calling them away from being protective. I really don't recommend this, but it can be done.
Most Dobermans are sensible about protecting and usually don't bark at every little noise.
You can also read their tones of voices and can tell by the sound of their bark the degree of the threat that they are guarding against.
We have a couple of articles on our site that you might wish to read that could help you out as well. They are Is This The Right Breed For You? and What It's Like Living With A Doberman.
Q: from
Sharon Loshin Tsantiotis
Date: 14
Apr 2003
Time:
18:05:33
Comments: Eartaping
Is there an internet site that gives a detailed description on how to tape your
dog's ears?
A: from
Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
http://www.equinoxca.com/taping.html
http://www.dpca-breedered.com/ears1.htm
Q: from Bob
Krenitsky
Date: 11
Apr 2003
Time:
13:41:04
Comments: Eye Goobers
What is an acceptable/normal level of "eye goobers"? Our red female has rather large discharges (lime green in color) but primarily in the morning. Is this normal for the breed?
Our Vet has ruled out pink-eye and other known diseases. He says it may be allergies. They don't seem to bother her at all but they are unsightly.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
IMO large lime green eye goobers is NOT normal in any breed and should be checked out immediately. IMO it is very probable that she has an allergy. Please watch this page on our site for other replies to your query...
REPLY: from Bob Krentisky
Thanks- I'll bring her in for additional testing.
Q: from
Perry Jackson
Date: 11
Apr 2003
Time:
17:49:57
Comments: Doberman Temperament
I enjoyed reading comments concerning not keeping two males together. I have a
one year old female Doberman (spayed) and am interested in getting another. How
do females get along together? Thanks in advance
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Most times Females get along but there are many that don't. It's just not something you can predict with certainty. You have to know the temperament of each dog. Does your year old bitch get along well with other dogs? Does she tolerate puppies?
Be sure to introduce them a little at a time. Your year old bitch is still a puppy herself but she is "boss" in her house. Don't allow the new puppy to charge her and jump all over her in the beginning. Hold the puppy in your lap and let the older one sniff and see what she's all about. Never let a young pup and an older one together playing freely as the younger one can get hurt easily accidentally. Supervise and use common sense.
Q: from
Cheryl De Saw
Date: 09
Apr 2003
Time:
17:30:21
Comments: Health
My boy had a hystiocytoma under his arm that had gotten a little infected from
rubbing. He had it about 4 weeks before I took him to the vet because it
was not getting better. I originally thought it was from him running through the
bushes.
Our vet said they usually go away, but prescribed an ointment usually used in the ear, called Otomax (gentmaicin sulfate, usp: beta methasone valerate, usp: clotrimazole, usp ointment). She said we could use it for a week or more if needed but that the growth could take up to 8 weeks to go away. The ointment worked really well and once I saw a great improvement in the growth, I stopped using it. It took about a week or a week and a half. It certainly was not long.
Can you tell me what the cause of these are? He does not have any others.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
Hystiocytomas are usually benign tumors. Some dogs are lucky enough that they disappear on their own and others have to have them surgically removed.
Comments:
Does the Dalmatian breed have a history of heart murmur? Either age onset or at
birth.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
I have a book called Medical & Genetic Aspects of Purebred Dogs and I looked under Dalmations. It seems that they have a lot of health problems due to their pigmentation or lack thereof. They also have a problem with blindness. They have Urinary calculi problems of the irate type, bacteria, and a characteristic dermatitis which include discoloration of the skin and white hair are common ailments that are considered a possible syndrome. The book goes on to describe these problems and what can be done to help them.
In another book, Your Purebred Puppy, A Buyers Guide, for health problems it says that they are susceptible to hip dysplasia, inherited deafness, skin conditions and urinary stones. Buy only from OFA-registered parents. A low-protein diet is often recommended to avoid bladder and kidney stones in this breed.
I hope that this helps you some.
Neither of the books mention the heart or heart murmurs but I would imagine that any breed of dog could occasionally have a puppy come up with a heart murmur. I would guess that it is not as common in a Dalmatian as it is in a Doberman since it is not mentioned.
Q: from
Jackie
Date: 08
Apr 2003
Time:
14:20:40
Comments: problems with two males
I have two littermates brothers age 1 and 1/2 years. I have a problem with
aggression. The larger one 99% of the time is fine. He will growl at the other
when he's in his crate. He will attack and not let up when the other submits. He
has been dripping pee when the other comes near or if the other gets a bone or
toy or attention from someone. He has been diagnosed with hypothyroid 3 days
ago.
Do you think the behavior will improve? I read the aggression can come from the low thyroid.
Any tips on training? I would hate to have to give one away to a family member.
Also my last Doberman had low thyroid and died 6 months later at age 5 from cardiomyopathy. I am scared this could happen to my dog who is his half brother with the same dad.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
At first glance on reading your post I thought
you said the dogs' ages were eleven and a half but I see
that they are one and a half years old. That makes a huge difference.
First of all, you should NEVER try to keep two males together. They WILL
fight and may eventually kill each other or be so badly hurt that they may not
recover. I'm scaring you purposely because I don't want to see this happen nor
do I want to see you get torn apart trying to break up a fight.
UNLESS you are going to keep them totally separate the rest of their lives,
never having them in contact with each other, you should place one of the dogs.
This issue is not going to get better, only much worse.
As to the dripping urine. Take the dog to the Vet immediately. While
it's rather early for a prostate problem, it's possible. It is also
possible for the dog to have a kidney or urinary tract infection and he should
be seen IMMEDIATELY. Simply collect a urine sample from the dog and take him in
to the Vet as quickly as you can.
You didn't spell the Thyroid problem correctly. It's either Hypothyroid or
Hyperthyroid. There is a big difference. If the dog is put on medication
prescribed by the Vet, he may be fine. Yes, it can cause symptoms of
aggression but that isn't the main reason. The main and simplest reason is
because they are males.
I would hope you have both males neutered if you are not showing in
Conformation. This would help if the urinating is caused by the Prostate.
Additionally, at this point in time it has not been proven that Thyroid problems
cause Cardiomyopathy.
*** *** ***
A: from
Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
It is recommended that a person should
not keep two male Dobermans together unless they have the facilities to keep
them separated and can figure out a way to keep them so that both males can keep
their dignity (for the lack of a better word). Each dog MUST get equal
individual time with the human family as well.
One day the submissive one will stand up for himself and you will have a huge dog fight. Your situation is a simply bad accident waiting to happen.
In my opinion giving thyroid will not change the completely normal behavior of an alpha male towards another male or any other male dogs for that matter. I would recommend that you do place one of them into the home of your family member. This will ensure both males a happier life, however long that it may be.
*** *** ***
A: from Bug Russell, USA
Before I even start out I'll tell you that I
think you did as many things wrong as could be possible and are doomed to
failure from the get-go.
First of all I NEVER EVER keep two dogs of the same age -- litter mates, not
litter mates -- makes no difference. I think this is just asking for
trouble, particularly with same sex dogs -- it is, among other things, a
guaranteed way to make sure neither dog gets what they need in terms of
attention, training etc. Dogs need different things at different ages and
there are far fewer problems if they are NOT the same age and from what I've
seen, littermates have MORE, not fewer problems in the same household than dogs
that aren't litter mates.
You don't say how long you've been having problems with aggression but 18 months
is the point at which most males seem to hit a maturity level that causes
aggression that hasn't been there before. I also get the impression that both of
these dogs are intact. They should have been neutered young if you intended to
keep them both.
It also isn't clear which dog is the aggressor but that doesn't make much
difference I guess. If one dog is being crated, then it should be done in an
area that does not allow the other dog to get near the crate in order to
threaten the crated dog. Allowing that is simply asking for more
problems. Fear aggression and refusal to accept submission is a disaster waiting
to happen. Even without the next item in the list of problems I personally
would not even be considering continuing to keep both of these dogs in
the same household.
Hyperthyroidism will certainly affect temperament and behavior and it won't
really be possible to tell just how much of the issue is from the thyroid
problem and how much is from the level of dominance between these two dogs until
the hyperthyroid dog has been on meds for some while.
Even though some same sex aggression is owner
induced there are definitely dogs who simply are same sex aggressive no matter
what you do. I am very careful about what puppies I choose to keep in my all
male dog collection. I do not EVER keep a male puppy beyond a very young age (6
months max) that I think may be even remotely dog aggressive.
If I were going to try to keep two males, from the same litter, not neuter them,
crate one while the other was loose and in a position to harass the crated dog I
would have started said training a long, long time ago. Using a lot more
common sense and neutering the dogs immediately would have been my start.
With caution being the better part of valour, I'd be trying to give one of these
dogs away to a family member NOW! I think trying to keep these two dogs
together now that there is an existing history of trouble between them is very
much a lost cause. Someone is likely to get hurt in the process -- if it
is only one of the dogs I think YOU will be very lucky. However, it's just as
likely to be the human who tries to break up an inevitable fight.
I have not read any studies that document a link between cardiomyopathy and
hyperthyroidism. They can both run in lines and the fact that the dog is
a half brother (same sire) to a dog who was both hyperthyroid and had some sort
of cardiomyopathy (probably DCM if he died at 5) would be the concern to me. We
all know that cardio can skip around in all sorts of ways and may or may not
show up in the puppies sired by or out of a particular dog. Frankly I think
there is a more identifiable link with
hyperthyroidism.
Having said all of this, my bottom line is that I WOULD NOT attempt to keep
these two males under the circumstances that you have described. As I stated
earlier, if you had intended to keep the brothers I'd have started out very
differently, certainly by neutering both of them very young.
Q:
from Jesse Fredericks
Date: 27 Mar 2003
Time: 22:33:36
Comments: Doberman Temperament
Why is it that the DPCA puts so much emphasis on conformation and hardly any at
all on working ability? After all the breed was bred to work. All working
kennels blame the AKC for completely flushing the working structure out of the
Doberman. I have seen AKC Champion dogs that were so skittish you could hardly
get close to them.
Working breeders say that there is absolutely no working temperament left in the
American Dobe and that it would never protect its owner. Why would the AKC
sacrifice the working ability of the breed for looks? Is there any chance of
getting the working character back in the Doberman?
A: from
Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
Many breeders that are members of the DPCA have dedicated themselves to the
breeding of the total Doberman. That means that they are breeding for the proper
temperament that is described in the Doberman standard as well as the health and
longevity of the Doberman and for the proper structure and conformation that is
described in our Doberman Pinscher Standard.
We do have several articles available about temperament and temperament traits
to enable us to learn about temperament to make breeding decisions based on our
knowledge. Check out the articles that are already on our articles page about
temperament and breeding for temperament and the working ability and watch for
more articles to come.
I really don't believe that any breeder truly wants a Doberman that does not
have the ability to do the work that he is bred to do. There are plenty of
American bred total Dobermans out there.
Yes, I believe that there is a chance to get the working ability back into the
Doberman.
Q:
from Jesse Fredericks
Date: 27 Mar 2003
Time: 22:40:41
Comments: Size
My Doberman just turned 9 months old is is 28 inches and 75 lbs. His father is
30 inches and 95 lbs and his mother is 28 inches and 75 lbs.
He was one of the biggest MALES in his litter.
Could you take a wild guess at his adult (Around 2yrs.) weight?
A: from
Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
He could weigh as much as either one of his parents I would imagine, depending
on his bone and substance which will figure in on his mature weight.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy
Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
Jesse you speak of your concern with getting the working ability back into the
American Doberman and yet you state above, with pride, that you have the biggest
pup out of a litter by some pretty big parents.
The larger this breed is the less likely it is that we will be able to use them
for what they were bred for since Louis Dobermann bred a *medium* sized dog for
the purpose of agility and speed when doing its job which was protection. In my
opinion and that of many others, Americans as well as International breeders,
there is nothing agile about a 30 inch male or a 28 inch female. In fact,
Dobermans in Europe are nowhere near in height what most American Dobermans are.
I suggest you read the German standard and the American standard in order to
understand that medium sized means normal her and overseas, not giant.
Q:
from Gerry
Date: 24 Mar 2003
Time: 18:19:30
Comments: Doberman Health
Kane is a year old and has been on Innova food since he was about 9 or 10
months. Over the past couple of weeks, his stool has been very dark and hard. I
haven't worried about it, because I had read that when you feed a good quality
food, that is one of the results. Although, sometimes, after a few "rocks" come
out, he goes again and drops a little bit of creamy stool, but this seems to be
when he's excited (like at the dog park.)
Also, he's developed a habit over the last week or so of not eating unless we
coax him with treats. I realize though, that I've probably trained him to do
this now, but I wonder if it's related. Should I run to the Vet? Or is this
normal?
A: from
Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
That creamy discharge is likely not stool but instead anal gland material which is what helps him to defecate without pain as well as it is an odor the other dogs can check to ascertain who/what he is. However, if his stool is quite hard go to any drugstore and buy some stool softener and dispense that to him according to the package when you notice him being too hard again.
It is very normal for a dog not to eat unless coaxed with treats even though it shouldn't be the case. It sounds as though he has your number unfortunately. No dog ever will starve himself to death so cut out the treats completely, offer his dry food to him morning and night, leaving it down for 10 minutes ONLY and taking it away until the next feeding if he refuses to eat it. Believe me, he will eat eventually and in record time if you are consistent and persistent.
Q:
from tijhay
Date: 23 Mar 2003
Time: 01:50:25
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
Hello and good day. Our female Dobe was bred on Feb. 21. I was just wondering
when will she give birth ... how many days would it take? hope you can help so
that we can prepare for it. Thanks a lot.
A:
from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
Her due date would be approximately April 25 -- gestation is 63 days.
Q:
from Andrew Pisciotta
Date: 22 Mar 2003
Time: 16:08:53
Comments: Doberman Health
I have a 3 year black/rust neutered male Doberman who constantly gets rapid
growing cysts under the skin starting out as pea size and grow very quickly. I
had 6 removed by my vet and they diagnosed no cancer and put him on Clavamox ...
he is still getting them ... any ideas? He is in great health and he seems to be
not affected in anyway. They are noticeable and I am afraid they will continue
to grow and affect his movements in time. I can not keep cutting on him since
they are appearing in a few weeks and grow quickly. He is on Iams adult and that
is it no people food at all. He is on Heartguard and other than that nothing
else.
Was giving him the Missing Link plus supplement which was a all natural powder
in his food supplement for large breed dogs but quit that over month ago
thinking that might cause but he is still getting the tumors. He was a rescue so
I can not contact breeder since his history is unknown. The only thing I knew
about him was he has always been on Iams so I just left him on it ... so I
really don't think it is the food. The vet says he thought it may be bacterial
but now that the Clavamox did not work he is ruling that out. He mentioned
thyroid...
He wants to remove one more small one and send away and do a bacterial
sterilized test of some sort.
The first surgery was done because he feared cancer and did not like the cells
he saw when he did the initial cell smear.
Now that cancer was ruled out he wants to send away and test for other things
... should we do the surgery again or can he get enough of a specimen by
extracting cell with a needle again.
Any ideas or help is appreciated.
A:
from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
It could easily be a food allergy since Iams changes ingredients constantly ever
since they were taken over by Proctor & Gamble.
Thyroid is a very real possibility too. If they decide to test his thyroid
please don't waste any time with the simple *cheap* blood test, go with the Free
Ts/T4 test that costs around $60.00 -- it is far more definitive.
A needle biopsy might help. Has he said whether these things could be
histiocytomas (non-malignant tumors)? These are quite common in Dobes of any age
... many go away on their own and many others need to be surgically removed.
*** *** ***
REPLY:
from Andrew Pisciotta
Thanks for the quick response … I have been doing some checking on the web and
many articles say Dobermans have a allergic reaction to corn and wheat so I am
going to get him off of Iams since corn is the second ingredient. I have heard a
lot about a food called Canidae and it is human grade meats, no corn or wheat
and has no by products, etc.
I also see a product on several Doberman pages called Nuvet Plus ... it is for
skin and other conditions including tumors. Again it is all natural supplement
so I may order it and give a try.
The tumors are histiocytomas.
REPLY from
Judy Bohnert
Canidae is an excellent food as is Wysong and Eagle Holistic Select. There was nothing wrong with the Missing Link additive you were giving before.
Don't go overboard making too many changes too soon or you'll never know for sure what the problem really was or what fixed it. The following advice was given to me by a homeopathic vet. He recommended at least 1500 mgs of fish oil a day to help prevent and to reduce fatty tumors. I did try this when I had a geriatric dog and it worked, at least by definitively reducing the size.
BTW, I'm not at all surprised that they were histiocytomas.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
I would try another biopsy. It does sound like
skin cancer but hope it's
not. Have you tried a Vet who is a specialist in Dermatology? I'd try that next.
Doesn't sound like it's food related or an allergy.
Q: from
Polly Kirchner
Date: 21 Mar 2003
Time: 17:19:26
Comments: Doberman Health
I am a Doberman owner and my baby is nine now and he has had a good life. I love
him to pieces but he has sore feet and I am having a hard time understanding
why.
At this time he has been to the vet for his feet and now I am trying to find out
on my own about this condition.
He is having a lot of trouble with his front feet in that it hurts him to walk. He has little bumps on his feet. What if anything do you know are these bumps? The vet here will never give me a straight answer. Can you help me?
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
I really can't say what is causing these bumps. My only advice would be to consult with another Vet. It could be some type allergy to the ground or as bad as skin cancer. I'm sorry but this needs to be a Vet diagnosis.
Q:
from Frank
Date: 20 Mar 2003
Time: 04:33:25
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
I was told that people are breeding the father to the daughter. Can you register
the litter if that happens?
A: from
Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
Yes you can but it isn't recommended unless you know exactly what you are dealing with in the pedigree.
Q:
from Kylah Lemke
Date: 19 Mar 2003
Time: 16:37:57
Comments: Other
My husband and I are researching whether or not a Doberman would be an
appropriate addition to our home. We have a 2 year old son and are planning on
having another baby in the next few years. We have a 16 year old Cocker Spaniel
that is not doing well and we will be putting him down. Our son has been
wonderful with the cocker. We have be adamant that the dog be treated well, and
our son does not pull hair, ears, tails etc. We are also very active and our dog
is very much a part of that activity such as Motocross Racing, and spending time
at the lake with family and their dogs. My expectations of a Doberman would be
to have good manners with children other dogs and provide companionship. I am
very concerned about having a dog that is over protective of our children, home
and does not socialize well with other dogs. I have had experience with
Dobermans before and they have all been very positive. I found that they are a
loving breed with bright personalities and lots of brains! However, am I running
a gamble in introducing a Doberman at this time in our lives? I want a dog that
will be around for a long time!!!
A: from
Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
My recommendation would be to not have a Doberman
until both of your children are older. I personally, as a breeder of 22+ years,
will usually not sell to anyone with children under 5, although there can be and
sometimes are, exceptions to my rule.
They truly are a loving breed with bright personalities and lots of brains and
they make exceptional family dogs but they also look on little people as members
of their pack and I have found that they can be a bit too rough on the wee ones
which is a recipe for disaster IMO.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
I think a Doberman would be ideal for your
lifestyle, however I'd get a female and of course spay it. Males can be
aggressive around strange dogs. Females can be also, but if you start her young
enough to get along with
other dogs, she should be fine.
Q:
from Jan Dittman
Date: 19 Mar 2003
Time: 13:06:25
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
This is a follow up on my Dobes. The female's mother and our male are half
brother & sister (different fathers) I'm not really interested in showing, I
just wanted to know if it was okay to breed them together.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
I wouldn't do it personally. Since they are so closely related, you would get double faults and a lot more problems than you can possibly deal with.
Q: from
Jackie Barnes, UK
Date: 19 Mar 2003
Time: 07:49:15
Comments: Thyroid problems & inheritance
A Dobermann (aged 2 years) has been diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism. I have been
reading up on this subject but there are a number of questions the sites do not
answer. I have been informed that American Dobe breeders are very clued up on
this subject and I would appreciate any information you have available.
I hope you will be able to answer my questions or point me in the right direction.
Thank you.
A: from Dr Kathy Davieds, DVM
The most current veterinary knowledge of which I am aware is that there presently remains no test to specifically determine if a Doberman *carries the potential to pass on thyroid problems* to its offspring. While familial predisposition for the condition (which is the most common endocrine condition in canines) has been documented (it is a *genetic* condition), the exact mode of inheritance has not been defined. Recent collaborative research on thyroiditis in Dobermans between the University of Alaska, Fairbanks (Dr. George M. Happ) and Iowa State University, Ames (Dr. Leslie Fox), supported by a DPFA grant, reports that it is a *complex condition....not linked to a single defective protein coded by a single defective gene, but rather involves intracellular and intercellular signaling ... the genes that cause thyroiditis and appear in a high frequency in a particular pedigree are very likely to be genes that influence cross-talk between and within cells... * More research will likely be needed to identify the specific genetic mode of transmission.
Autoimmune thyroiditis, the body attacking its
own thyroid tissue, is the inciting cause of hypothyroidism in the overwhelming
majority of cases. Aside from a full thyroid panel at the University of Michigan
to identify if an individual dog is itself hypothyroid, I am not aware of a
screening test to determine if a Doberman may *pass on thyroid problems*.
Some statistics regarding TgAA, or thyroglobulin autoantibodies: 85-100% of dogs
with lymphocytic thyroiditis (their body in the autoimmune process of destroying
its own thyroid tissue) have been shown to have TgAA. TgAA is present in
approximately 50% of clinically hypothyroid dogs. *Some* clinically normal dogs
have also been shown to test positive for TgAA. The presence of TgAA does not
specifically indicate if a dog will pass on hypothyroidism to its offspring.
Hypothyroid dogs may also be positive for circulating antibodies against T3, T4
and other thyroid-related substances.
TgAA positive, subclinical (early) hypothyroidism usually manifests with increased TSH (attempting to stimulate the remaining undestroyed thyroid tissue), and normal T3 and T4. TgAA positive, overt hypothyroidism, when nearly all functional thyroid tissue is gone, usually manifests with increased TSH and decreased T4, at a minimum.
Hypothyroidism is a very complex and generally slowly progressive disease. For this reason, the need to screen canines, especially breeding stock, on a regular basis is universally accepted. Some sources recommend annual testing throughout a dog's life, others annually for the first four years, then every other year after that. In this manner, more animals may be diagnosed in the early stages of this autoimmune process, before they begin to show typical signs of the disease, and should then ideally be removed from a breeding program.
If further elaboration is needed, let me know!
*** *** ***
A: from Jackie Barnes, UK
Judy,
Many thanks for the time you have taken to find answers to my questions. The information is very helpful. There has been ongoing discussion here in the UK on this subject and this has helped to clear up a couple of 'urban myths' in my mind. I have shared this info with other Dobe folk - hope that is OK.
Thank you once again.
Jackie
Q:
from John Samms
Date: 19 Mar 2003
Time: 06:26:15
Hello, I've been searching the net and a few other places because I have a problem and I'm really having a hard time finding information. I have a champion racing sled dog from the Yukon in Canada. I stopped off at this persons house. My dog was chained to my truck. The person I was visiting knew that my dog comes from very select blood lines and he is in his second year of novice racing. He let his bitch who was in heat outside loose knowing that my dog was there tied up. Of course a breeding happened. This person started right away that the bitch is his so the pups are his. Thanks for the blood lines. They are their pups and if I don't like it ... too bad, go to hell. I spent a couple of months and a few thousand dollars to get my hands on this line for the purpose of racing. They get my racing lines just because they let their bitch run free while in heat. Doesn't sound right to me.
QUESTION: What would be the law on an accidental breeding that was done on purpose, for the purpose of stealing a blood line. (or just any info you may have on accidental breedings. who is the owner of the pups.)
Would you have any info on this question???
Thanks for any help you can offer.
A:
from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
I take it this is not a Doberman breed, otherwise
you wouldn't tie up a Dobe to a truck. It would freeze to death. If you did NOT
witness the breeding, you don't have to sign the AKC papers, thus the litter
will not be registered with AKC.
As for stealing your bloodlines, I wouldn't worry about it. I'm sure others have
similar lines. Make him pay you a stud fee and get on with your life.
Next time, don't tie up your dog. Put him in a crate or house. Worse things can
happen like him being stolen or whatever.
Q: from Jan
Dittman
Date: 18 Mar 2003
Time: 11:53:20
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
We have just purchased a red female Dobe pup. We own a black Dobe 2 yr old male.
His mother and the mother of the female's mother are the same but their fathers
were different. Since there is one generation difference and the males are
different is it still okay to breed the two together?
A:
from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Most top breeders don't breed to dogs they own. The reason for this is that you
want to breed your bitch to the best dog possible to correct her faults (they
all have them) and to double up on the good features. Rarely do we own the
perfect male to do this.
Are both show quality animals? If not, then naturally you shouldn't breed them.
We should only breed the best to the best and pray mother nature with her genes
and chromosomes fall into the right places.
As to breeding half brother and sister, we do on occasion, but as I've said,
BOTH have to be of great quality. While you may get the good features, you will
also double up on the bad features. You are doubling up on the Dam, so she
better be a good one.
Q:
from Lacy
Date: 14 Mar 2003
Time: 13:40:49
Comments: Handling
Hi,
My name is Lacy and I'm a junior handler. I'm not a professional yet but hope to
become one soon when I have my face out there. I would love to show one of your
dogs if you would let me. Please email me.
A:
from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Lacy, you don't mention where live. How old are
you? Do you have any experience in showing dogs? What breeds? How do you get to
the shows? Do you know the proper care of an animal? Have you owned a Doberman
and have you shown it in Conformation?
Please respond so we may be able to point you in the right direction.
Q: from
Holly Broughton
Date: 14 Mar 2003
Time: 20:55:13
Comments: Doberman Health
Hello, I have a couple questions for you. I have heard that the DNA test for vWD
is 99% accurate but recently I heard of someone who sent in a test on a dog and
it came back affected, so she sent it again and it came back clear, so she sent
it in once more and it came back carrier. I am now concerned with the accuracy
of the test. What are your thoughts on it. I hate to spend that large amount of
money on a test that may not accurately evaluate my dog.
Also this is a strange question, but the very end of my 16 month old bitch's
nipple turned pink in color just this last week. What would cause that and is
that anything that would be a problem in the breed ring? Thanks for your time
and knowledge.
A: from
Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
There have been a few cases where the tests
results of vWD have been mishandled. We'd be interested in copies of these tests
so we might be able to see if this is a pattern and ask around for others. We
depend a great deal on the accuracy of the DNA testing and if it's not handled
correctly we need to know with facts, not rumours. If you'd like to write to us
again privately
equinox@shaw.ca and let us know which
Laboratory your test was sent to, we might be able to get some answers for you.
As to the nipple turning pink, she may have irritated it or gotten a bug bite.
Is it swollen or any discharge coming from it? Regardless, it would not be a
problem in the breed ring unless it is unsightly.
Q:
from Terri Kurz
Date: 13 Mar 2003
Time: 14:52:28
Comments: Ear Taping
Judy, the ear did not curl as it healed. It is a very long thin show crop. The
first inch of the tip sways slightly backwards towards the other ear. Bending
backward. If you look in the Doberman Digest, April 2002 on page 93 you can see
an example. My girl's ear sways back, this dog's ear curls back. Thank you for
your help.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
This looks as though it might still be a taping problem and hopefully can be fixed. I would be more inclined to think however that a re-crop may be necessary especially if the crop is long and only one ear is curling.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
My advice is to take a one inch piece of the
insulation foam which comes in long rolled strips. I'd use the smallest width.
Reverse tape this and place it on the area of the ear that starts to bend
backward. Put it on the opposite side of the curl. Then take a strip of tape and
run it from inside of ear over the tip and on the back of the ear. It's hard to
explain in writing. The object is to reverse the curl with the foam at the break
of curl.
Dr. Patty Edwards DVM did a few tapings at the National a couple years ago and
she said it works very well. She ids also an expert on ear cropping and taping.
I hope this helps a little.
Q:
from Ali Grimes
Date: 10 Mar 2003
Time: 14:42:20
Comments: Tail Docking
I have recently adopted a Doberman pup from the humane shelter. She has natural
ears and tail. My question is what is involved in tail docking and at what age
should that have been done?
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox Dobermans, Canada
How old is your puppy? If she is under 3 months of age cropping and docking can still be done. If she is older I would seriously consider NOT doing it.
Q:
from V. Sridharan
Date: 09 Mar 2003
Time: 16:58:13
Comments: Doberman Conformation/Handling
What are the best exercises for improving the physical musculature of my Dobe
bitch. She is a winner of 2 cc by 16 months age?
A:
from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
I'd suggest road working with bike or scooter,
starting out at a slow trot for the first few weeks and building up to a little
faster trot. You should only go a short distance at first. Make sure the surface
is not going to damage her feet.
If she is one who stays well muscled, then just running and galloping in your
yard may be sufficient.
Q:
from M.E.Gray, III
Date: March 08, 2003
Time: 17:07:01
Comments: Training
Hello my name is Morrison Gray. I am trying to find a good school or trainer to help me with my 17 month old Doberman. His name is Dirt. I live in Baltimore, Maryland and like most Dobermans I know this puppy is smart as a whip. With proper training I can bring out the full potential in this dog. His color is fawn. I am also interested in any clubs in my area for Dobermans. Thanking you in advance.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
You might try contacting Carole Bohanan-Uhler. Her e-mail is huhler@netzero.net She lives in Maryland and might be able to send you to someone who can be of help.
Q:
from Terri Kurz
Date: 06 Mar 2003
Time: 22:42:12
Comments: ear taping
Hello, I'm having a hard time with my 6 month old pups ears. They are standing
but the tip on one ear is curling slightly back. I read all the taping
instructions from this site. Did not find anything. Right now I'm trying a
newspaper rolled into a tube almost pencil size. If you have any tips, please
help. Thanks.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
Is the tip curling *in* or *back* If it is curling back there is likely not much you can do with it as that is caused by poor taping and what has happened is that the scar tissue has drawn the ear into a curl as it healed.
Q:
from Guido Fasce
Date: 05 Mar 2003
Time: 05:57:23
Comments: Health Problems
My Dobie is four months old and is having loss of hair and very dry coat. Also
he doesn't seem to be able to gain weight and his stool is somewhat loose . I
would appreciate any help that you can give me regarding my Dobie. Thank you.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox Dobermans, Canada
It could be blue Dobe alopecia (if he is a blue) or it could be worms or almost anything else, regardless of color. We aren't vets and therefore not qualified to respond other than from our own experiences. You haven't given us much information to even give you some ideas but my suggestion would be to take your puppy to the vet as soon as possible.
Q:
from April
Date: 04 Mar 2003
Time: 14:07:11
Comments: Feeding
I just read about a diet called barf, and according to the article this raw
foods diet is supposed to make a healthier pooch with less health problems. Is
this true and has anyone used this method of feeding and what are your
experiences with it?
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
There was a discussion about this issue on the site. Simply scroll a ways down the page of questions and answers or do a search on the page for BARF and you will find it.
Q:
from Dan Lacy
Date: 03 Mar 2003
Time: 18:52:11
Hello, I have a few questions for you, if you would not mind.
I read on your site that you should only breed a Doberman once every other season. I went to a a breeder that I found on your web site who had Dobe puppies. She asked me if I would like to see the mothers older pup's. I said sure. She then brought in a very beautiful 8 month old male Dobe. I asked her how often she produces litters from the mother. She said that she used to do it every other season but she went to a breeding seminar and an expert said that it was either good or ok (I'm not sure what exactly she said) to breed back to back like that and that it was the mothers second litter. Is she correct in breeding back to back like this?
Also we got to see the grandmother, she was on the large side (which we like, this is going to be a pet) however the mother was on the small side (the breeder said that she was perfect size for the American standard. What are the chances for the female pups being bigger than the mother, is there a stage that you can make an educated guess? Would I be wise to take the biggest female of the litter. Also we will not be breeding, we will have the pup spayed.
We saw an ad in the news paper, I asked the guy
if the parents were OFA certified, he didn't know what that meant, I told him it
was to guarantee that the hips were good and he said "yes I have had no problem
with the parents hips". I asked him about VWD and he did not know about that
either. The parents are on the site where the pups are, if I were to visit the
parents and they had a temperament that I desired would it be wise to purchase
from him, or should I skip him because of his lack of knowledge about OFA and
VWD. He wants $550 for his pups and the breeder wants $1200 for a pet. WHAT WE
ARE LOOKING FOR IS A GOOD HEALTHY PET. We will pay top dollar for a pet that we
know will not have serious health problems down the road.
Have you ever heard of an all black Dobe? Are these to be avoided like an albino
Dobe? Thanks for your time and I look forward to your help. I am located in
Plainfield Il about 50 minutes west of Chicago.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox Dobermans, Canada
There are occasions where it is okay to breed back to back. For example, with a female that only had one puppy in her litter I would think it would be alright but I it is usually frowned upon.
Sometimes the smallest pups end up being the biggest dogs in the litter. Chances are with a bigger grandmother *some* of them will likely be on the larger side. However, it takes two partners to dance therefore dad's side has a lot of say in the matter as well naturally...
You get what you pay for in all walks of life. If a person doesn't know what health tests are called and that are required in their chosen breed then the prospective buyer should run as fast and as far in the opposite direction as they can. You'll pay far more in the long run for the resultant vet bills than the difference of $650 being discussed now. Naturally you could have health problems with a well bred dog too but the chances are far less likely.
If the dog in question was solid black, I would seriously doubt that it was indeed purebred, regardless of whether or not it has registration papers. They are not the genetic anomaly that the whites are but they are still wrong and very likely cross-bred. Did you know that one female dog can have innumerable mates in one heat cycle meaning that the pups can be sired by several different dogs????
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
While it is true that the rule of thumb is not to breed our bitches in back to back heat periods, there are exceptions to the rule. The reason that the breeder spoke of is one of the reasons. Maybe the first litter was small. Often times an expert will recommend this because the females estrogen levels stay up throughout this whole period and are higher at the following heat period. The reason goes on to say that the female in question has a better chance to have a larger litter.
On the size thing. Does the mother have good bone? We are suppose to breed to the standard and too large is a deviation. Dobermans, however are supposed to have heavy bone and it should be in balance with the whole. If the father is big too ( like the grand-mother) and his mother and father are big, you have a good chance of getting a substantial sized Doberman. Actually, in my opinion, all of our guesses at 8 weeks are just educated guesses. The largest one may not necessarily turn out to be the biggest but she probably will turn out to be big enough. I could probably give you more odds if I knew who all of the dogs are in the pedigree. I can tell you though, that I think that this breeder is being honest with you judging from what you say about her.
Now, for the next breeder, red flags are going up all over the place. First of all, you should buy from a breeder that does all of the health testing for the health problems that Dobermans have. If we test and include the results into our breeding decisions we have a chance to breed a healthier dog for you. I would skip that person, not necessarily because he doesn't have much knowledge, but because of the fact he didn't go out and do the homework that you are doing and get some education before he just puts two dogs together to have puppies.
There is an article on the site about what to look for in a good breeder. Did you read that one? It is a new article.
Yes, I have heard of an all black Doberman and an all red one too. It has been a very long time and I have seen one of each, I think, in the seventies. This is called Melanism and occasionally we see Dobermans almost without the rust markings on the chest and/or lots of penciling on the feet or with what we call "muddy" markings.
Our standard calls for clearly defined markings and state where they should be. All of the above is a deviation and a Doberman with no markings at all would be, or should disqualified from the show arena.
There is a copy of the Doberman Standard on the site as well as an article and Discussion about the Standard on the site. I hope that I have covered all of your questions.
Thank you for visiting the site. There is a list of all the articles on this site that will help you find a good breeder too. The DPCA has a Public Education site as well that has many excellent articles about the Doberman and finding breeders, etc.
If you have more questions, please write back. I do travel for a living so I may not be able to answer right away but our Breeder/Exhibitor page has a Question and Answer forum that you can use and usually all three of us answer any question asked. The questions and the replies from us stay up on the site to help other too. Good luck. Marj
Q:
from Ken
Date: 02 Mar 2003
Time: 04:18:02
Comments: Looking for a working Dobe/pet
I have always adored the Doberman Pinscher and am finally in a position to
acquire my first. My informal research in this breed began four years ago,
reading everything I have been able to access. This is the start of my formal
search for a good breeder.
Background: I have always had dogs in one form or another in my family. From
Chow-chows to Labradors to Pekinese. Currently we have a 3 year old Pomeranian
in the family. We have no kids but do plan on having them in the next few years.
I am active and multi-disciplined. By trade I am a computer security consultant
but am also a certified Military/Law Enforcement tracker, marksman and trainer.
I am looking for an intelligent WORKING DOG that may see action as a tracking
dog/partner. I am NOT looking for a K-9 or police dog but am interested in a
good friend/family member that can share the many activities in which I engage.
I live in Southern California but would not hesitate to visit a kennel elsewhere
for the right breeder.
Finally, although I have no plans to show the dog, if the dog has promise I
would be willing to devote the time for the sake of my partner.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
I am sorry but we do not refer people to breeders on this site. I suggest that you go to the DPCA Breeder Referral page by clicking on the link as a good place to start looking for that special dog for you. Good luck!
Q: from
Michelle Crawford
Date: 02 Mar 2003
Time: 09:22:26
Comments: Child Preparation/Older dogs
Greetings. I have been learning about (and of course admiring!) the Doberman
breed for about 2 years and while I do desire to have a Doberman become part of
my family, I do not want to rush into the purchase of a dog. I feel I need
advice on when would be a good time to introduce a dog into my family and also
on whether my home is suitable.
The main reason for this is because I have two young boys with whom I stay at
home, ages 4 and 2 years. I would very much appreciate your advice on how to
prepare and educate my sons (and myself!) for responsible dog ownership and
teach them proper manners towards dogs (especially in lieu of a dog!).
Also, I would be grateful for any thoughts you may have (aside form constant
supervision, which I agree with completely!) on the compatibility of Dobermans
and such young children.
I should also point out that instead of getting a puppy, I am really much more
interested in adopting a mature dog from a Doberman rescue here in northern
California (where I reside) or approaching breeders and asking about older dogs
they might have available, and I wonder you would have any advice for me on that
matter. I just felt that a more mature dog might be easier for my family and for
myself.
I would like to learn to train my dog for obedience, and participate in a sport,
perhaps Flyball, frisbee, or maybe (one day, when we are all very experienced!)
Schutzhund. Would acquiring an older dog limit these possibilities or be a good
beginning?
We own a 1400 sq ft. suburban home, have no other pets, and a fully fenced (6')
but small (approx. 1400 sq. ft) back yard with a 5'x 40' dog run (side yard
converted to a dog run per a previous owner) on the north side of my property.
The dog would mainly be indoors. This would be my first time owning a Doberman
and attempting anything higher than a "puppy manners"-type training group class.
Thank you for your time and thoughts.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
First of all I would strongly suggest that you wait until your children are over 5 years of age.
If you are, however, interested in adopting an older dog there are many of them available for forever homes, especially in your area. You could go to www.dobermanrescue.net to contact the people there, who, I am certain, would be more than happy to help you find a suitable dog in your area.
Q: from
Jamie
Date: 02 Mar 2003
Time: 19:10:19
Comments: Grading the Doberman Puppy
Hi,
I have two 10 month old sisters that are very, very prey driven. My problem is
the constant distraction from the squirrels to the point that they just don't
concentrate on my commands. They both are very head strong. I have tried choke
and pinch collars which the pinch helps while trying to heel them some. No
matter what I do or use to bait them to get their attention doesn't help. I have
tried taking them to places with no squirrels but can't get there very often for
training. They have gone to obedience classes but the problem is here on our 5
acres. Anyone with any input on this would be helpful.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
I have buyers of mine that are working their dogs in obedience and are having one heck of a time getting through to them about the squirrels. The good news is, if you ever succeed you'll have a virtually bomb proof dog. Please feel free to contact Carla jayman@sprint.ca, Candice dobie.dogs@shaw.ca and Sylvia theseal@shaw.ca for obedience/distraction advice. You might also try Irene Quesnoy iqdobe@compuserve.com and/or Bonnie Wittrock bwittrock@macnet.com. Good luck!
Q:
Gerry
Date: 27 Feb 2003
Time: 16:30:34
Comments: Other
My 1 year old Dobie, Kane is always indoors with us, except when we are not
home. I built him a 10 x 10 kennel in the backyard where he is safe from digging
and trying to escape. This coming Monday, I am having some people come to do
some work in the backyard while we're not here. The work will take all week.
They will probably be arriving after my wife and I have already left for work.
My concern is that when Kane sees them back there, he will freak out. He is
extremely well socialized, but this is his territory being invaded by strangers.
I am trying to make arrangements to change my work schedule so that I work
afternoons, but that might not work out. Any advice?
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Here are some suggestions for you to try:
Q: Kay
Timperio
Date: 27 Feb 2003
Time: 16:17:04
Comments: Health
Our 4yr. old red Dobe has been diagnosed at the Tech Teaching Hospital with
Gastrointestinal Lymphomas. She was given 6 weeks to live with no treatment. I
was also told maybe 1year with Chemotherapy. Is there any other information out
there?
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox Dobermans, Canada
Please got to the following links:
*** *** ***
A: from
Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
You might go to Google for example and type in Veterinarians and then do a
search for her diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Lymphoma on the sites that may come
up.
There are also Veterinarians that belong to this site who might answer you or
they may be articles on this that you haven't heard of yet. Good luck.
By the way, usually Chemotherapy on dogs is fairly easy on them, not at all like
it is with humans.
Q:
from Frank Evans
Date: February 25, 2003
Time: 17:16:28
Comments: Doberman History
My name is Frank Evans and I'm doing research on a gentleman very involved with your early organization, Mr. Forest C. Bowles. From what I gather, Mr. Bowles was quite active as a breeder and judge, in fact his daughter shared with me a plaque presented to him by DPCA bestowing on him the title "Mr. Doberman". In addition, I'm told he was credited in the writing of the Standard as it was used in the early 20's and 30's.
I would be most interested in someone from your
archives contacting me to discuss any information you may have on this
gentleman.
A:
from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
You should contact Ms. Nancy Heitzman: Kamricdobe@aol.com as she is Chair of the DPCA Archives. I'm sure she could tell you more about Mr. Bowles. I knew Mr. Bowles slightly but only as a judge. I hope that helps a little.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie, USA
Hello Frank, Nancy Heitzman is in charge of the archives and knows quite a lot of DPCA's history. You might contact her at Kamricdobe@aol.com.
Q:
from Judy Larson
Date: 22 Feb 2003
Time: 03:52:28
Comments: Doberman Conformation/Handling
Why are we ruining the Doberman breed here in our country by making them so fine
boned and greyhound looking? Looking back at old pictures of Peggy Adamson’s
Dobes one can see the substance and beautiful head types of her males and
especially females in almost every Damasyn Dobe. Did we forget that Dobes are
working dogs?
A:
from Marj Brookes, Manorie, USA
I am sorry to have to admit that I am seeing that too. However, the standard has not changed since the days of Damasyn, Browns and Ahrtal and other Dobermans at the time that you are speaking of.
I don't know where you are from, but I do see some Dobermans that look like working dogs today as well. We are aware that elegant does not mean refined.
Where and what is your source of information for
the opinion that you have formed?
There is an article on the breeder-education articles page that has a discussion
of the standard as well as the standard.
Q:
from Ericka
Date: February 24, 2003
Time: 10:51 AM
Hi. My male Bull Mastiff has whip worms. My other male does not as of yet. I
read that panacur is effective for treatment. Where can this be purchased? What
about an interceptor? I would appreciate any and all advice you have on this.
A: from
Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
You can obtain Panacur from your Vet. He/she will most likely require a stool sample. Interceptor may be good for control, but not for eliminating the worms.
*** *** ***
A: from
Marj Brookes, Manorie, USA
Hello Ericka. Panacur is effective. You have to get it from the veterinarian.
Interceptor controls it to a degree but it does not cure them of the worms. The
vet will probably want a stool sample.
Q:
from Liz Gentile
Date: 23 Feb 2003
Time: 13:36:31
Comments: other
If a breeding pair produce a dominant black puppy in their all black litter, and
the sire has produced reds previously, does that mean that the dam is a dominant
black bitch?
A:
from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Not necessarily. You can have a large litter of all one color and yet the
"possible" next puppy might be another color.
Example: A friend of mine whelped 12 all black puppies whose parents were both
black. A few hours later she whelped a blue puppy. Had that last puppy not been
born they would have thought either sire or dam might be dominant black as both
their parents were also black.
How do you know your pup is dominant black?
REPLY: from Liz Gentile
Thank you for the reply to my question. Judy Doniere asked me how I know my puppy is a dominant black. The puppy was DNA tested by her buyer and found not to carry the red gene so the buyer was thrilled and told me that the dam is a dominant black since the sire is not.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
This is not necessarily true. Both sire and dam could be carrying a recessive or even a dilute but because they are both black, it's possible to have one or more black puppies end up as dominant black.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brookes, Manorie, USA
There is a color chart on this site. I think that
with these results the dam could very well be dominate black. A person wouldn't
know for sure about the dilution factor without a pedigree and some knowledge of
the background. At least you couldn't rule it out. Has the male that produced
red before sired blue and/or fawns before?
The color chart will show you all of the combinations and the possible results
for the puppies.
REPLY: from Liz Gentile
Marj, The sire has not produced blues or fawns.
Q: from Judy York
Date: 22 Feb 2003
Time: 03:47:15
Comments: Health
My Doberman has a knot on the top of her head. It has always been there. Is this
something that some Doberman's have?
A:
from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
I assume you're referring to the Occipital bone at the top of the skull. This is
normal although most heads flatten out with maturity, some may continue to show
it especially on dogs who are underweight.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Where on her head is knot or bump? It could be the occiput, the bump at the back
of the skull, between the ears, which all dogs have. Some are more pronounced
than others. She could have high or rounded frontal bones. (the bones above the
eyes on top of the head).
Q: from Al Duque
Date: 21 Feb 2003
Time: 22:17:07
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
What breeds are mixed to create a miniature Doberman?
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
The Min Pin is not a smaller version
of anything, especially the much larger Doberman Pinscher. Both may have
descended from the German Pinscher, a medium-sized black and tan dog bred to
control vermin in the barnyard, but there the relationship ends. The Doberman
includes Rottweiler and perhaps the Black and Tan Terrier. the Min Pin
reportedly came from crosses with breeds as diverse as the Dachshund and the
Italian Greyhound.
Part of the confusion in origin comes from the word "pinscher," which is a
descriptive term like "terrier" or "setter" that denotes the dog's method of
working, not his heritage. In the German dialect, "pinscher" means "biter" and
derives from the dog's habit of jumping on and fiercely biting its quarry. The
German pinscher family includes the Affenpinscher, a toy breed with a wiry coat,
and the schnauzers. The name may also be borrowed from the English "pincher,"
meaning "one who seizes or pinches."
The Min Pin is also not related to the Manchester Terrier in either the standard
or toy sizes. The Manchester is an English breed; the Min Pin hails from
Germany.
Q: from KH LeMarr
Date: 21 Feb 2003
Time: 21:57:27
Comments: Doberman Temperament
My rescue male, neutered, 3 yr old bites when you are petting him and he has
broken skin. This has happened about 3 times in the last 6 months. These bites
are unprovoked. He is loving in every way.
He has been on thyroid meds for about a year. How often should the thyroid be
retested? He has an appointment for retesting. Could this possibly be the
problem.
A: from
Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
I would certainly have his Thyroid checked every 6 mo. to make sure he's getting
the right dosage he needs.
I don't want to blame the thyroid problem although it may be instrumental in his
biting problem, I would think this is his temperament. If he bites only when
petting him, are you trying to hug him at the same time? Many dogs resent this.
If it's just petting and he is fine otherwise, don't pet him. Any bite should be
a caution. If he gets by with it, he will continue and may get worse. Try taking
him back to your Vet and see what he/she says.
Otherwise, I consult with a trainer who specializes in temperament problems.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brookes, Manorie, USA
Probably not, but he should be tested for thyroid yearly. I believe that the
biting is inappropriate, but you need to let him know that it is wrong. Is he
playing with you (play biting) or is he growling or trying to be the boss. You
need to nip this in the bud, now. Tell him no.
Depending on how he is manifesting this behavior determines the course of action
to be taken. Tell us more and/or go to a knowledgeable trainer/behaviorist.
Q: from David McLeod
Date: 15 Feb 2003
Time: 19:55:29
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
Hi,
Where can I find a great quality working class and a quality show Doberman?
Please email me back. Thanks.
A:
from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
Where exactly are you located? There are breeders I can possibly refer you to in your area and you could also check out the DPCA Breeders Directory.
Q: from Melody
Date: 14 Feb 2003
Time: 03:32:42
Comments: Depression?
I acquired an 8 year old, well-trained, male Doberman (Dakota) about a year ago
now, making him currently 9. Although he is a "family" dog, he is MY dog. Our
family seems to have bonded exceptionally well and I truly believe he's happier
here. I like the old owner but don't think he gave Dakota the attention he
craves. He has never been aggressive, will wear out all of the kids wrestling
with him, and will literally do the most hysterical jumps and flips if he thinks
he's going bye-bye. A couple of weeks ago, his old owner stayed with us for a
couple of days. Whenever the old owner gave Dakota a command, Dakota would look
at me and not do anything until I told him to but other than that he acted fine.
Since the old owner left Dakota really hasn't been his old self. I know this
sounds ridiculous, but he acts depressed. I can still get him to play or he'll
get excited to go somewhere but otherwise he just seems to mope around the
house. Can he be depressed?
Also, (sorry this is so long) what are some of the health issues to expect for
him as he gets older? He's in excellent health now according to the vet -
nothing wrong with his hips, no fatty deposits, or anything like that.
Any info is greatly appreciated.
A:
from Marj Brooks, Manorie, USA
Dakota could very well be depressed. Take him for leash walks and spend some one on one time with him and resume your usual daily routine with him like you were doing before his former owner came to visit. In due time he should come around. Watch him closely too as he may not be feeling well physically. That could also make him be depressed. Have you taken his temperature and is he eating? Other than the depression, is he acting normal?
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
Of course he can be depressed but more than likely he may be somewhat confused. If it were me I wouldn't allow the old owner to give Dakota any commands when he comes to visit...it is no longer his place to do so. I believe then as time goes by your dog will come to fully understand that your home is his home.
Q: from Wendy
Date: 12 Feb 2003
Time: 19:03:03
Comments: Doberman Health
My Doberman is 7 or 8 years old and is a female. I am taking her to the vet
because of a sack like thing hanging from her stomach, close to the back of her
belly. It looks like it is full of baseballs but I don't know what they are. It
appears to be a mass of tissue so I think it is tumours and I am worried that
the vet will want to put her to sleep. I lost a male last year he was about 9
close to 10 he has liver disease and he was put to sleep. I am very worried
about this and would appreciate a response as soon as possible. I really need to
know what to expect. Thank you
A: from
Marj Brooks, Manorie, USA
I can understand your fears, but you should take her to the vet and have it
checked. If you have caught it in time you can have it treated, if it is what
you fear that it is. Your vet should be able to direct you far better than we
can on this one.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
You don't mention how long your
bitch has had this "sac." Did it just come on quickly? It sounds like mammary
tumor(s). Get her to the Vet as soon as possible! It may be that all that's
needed is removal of her breasts. If it's cancer hopefully it hasn't
metastasized or gone into the lung.
Only a Vet can be positive. Don't wait. Get to a Vet now.
Q: from Wendy
Date: 13 Feb 2003
Time: 17:13:25
Comments: Doberman Health
I took my female Doberman to the vet yesterday and he said the sack is cancer but we are going to do a biopsy to see if it is malignant and then we will decide what to do. He said if it is malignant we will probably have to put her to sleep and if not he can take the sack off and she will be okay.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Its too bad that you waited until your bitch got this bad before taking her to the Vet. Any malignancy IS Cancer unfortunately. To put her down is probably the most humane thing to do with her.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie, USA
I am so sorry. I will hope and pray for the best for her to be okay.
Q: from Gina
Date: 11 Feb 2003
Time: 19:57
Hi my name is Gina. I have a question for you. I do truly hope you can answer it for me. I recently obtained a beautiful male Doberman. His name is Oz. He is 2 1/2 years old. The question is this; I am needing to know his ancestry. How do I go about finding out the information I need? I would like to know where his roots lie. If there was any previous defects down his family tree.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
First of all, where did you get your dog? Did you buy from a breeder? Does he
have AKC registration papers? If so, it's fairly easy to trace his pedigree.
Answer the first questions I asked and we'll go from there.
Q: from Gina
Date: 13 Feb 2003
Time: 11:48
Yes he is registered. I got him from a woman in a surrounding area. His name is Sunz Black Cherokee Codie.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes,
USA
Since this dog is AKC registered you can send in to AKC for a 4 or 5 generation
pedigree. Go to the AKC web site and you will find how to do it or you could
call AKC and they will tell you how to get a Certified pedigree. It is not too
cost prohibitive.
You will need to the Dog's registered name and registration number as well as
the name of the breeder and owner.
Q: from Malissa
Date: 08 Feb 2003
Time: 23:29:17
Comments: Feeding your puppy
Do you have any recommendations on the best dog food to be feeding my new 5
month old puppy?
A:
from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
Any of the top quality foods such as Wysong, Canidae, Eagle Pack and the like are fine. There are indeed many other acceptable brands as well. Each dog is different so you may have to try different brands. Do not buy anything that you can get off the shelf in your local grocery store.
Many people also follow the BARF (bones and raw food) diet. If you are inclined to consider this method simply click on the link above to be taken to a section about BARF on this page.
Q: from Sandy James
Date: 08 Feb 2003
Time: 21:48:28
Comments: Doberman Conformation/Handling
Could you please send me the rules for the Top Twenty Competition? I need them
ASAP. Thank You!
A:
from Marj Brooks, Manorie, USA
About the Top 20 rules question. Dr. Sam Burke, BO@SOFTDISK.COM is the chairman
for all of the Top 20. Joni Kahn is the Top 20 conformation chairperson,
jmkahntex@aol.com Top 20 Obedience chairperson is Karen Anderson, epondltd@aol.com Top
20 agility chairperson is Carol Moore, cmoore@infinet.com , for the rules she
could contact whatever one that she is interested in or Dr. Burke.
Q: from Benjamin
Date: 07 Feb 2003
Time: 06:20:09
Comments: Boxer ear cropping
My boxer is 3.5 months old and just got the second taping removed from a ear
cropping, it was taped twice because the first time didn't work on one ear. We
massage it they way our vet told us but it isn't as straight as it should be.
Now it is a lot better but still isn't nearly as straight as the "good ear". Is
there any way to help the ear stay up with out taping it again?
A: from
Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Actually, you are lucky that the
ears are up with just a couple tapings. There is no way to straighten out an ear
without taping more.
You didn't say if the ear was leaning in any direction or if the ear was curling
at the top or if it was hanging down. All may be taped in a different manner. I
would go to our Taping Ears section and read up on it. You may have to tape the
ears several times as the puppy is just now in the teething stages and many
times ears do crazy things.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
No, you will need to re-tape your puppies ears most likely many more times. Tape both ears. There is an article on taping ears on this web-site in the articles section. You will want then to stand tall at the 12 o'clock position, facing neither inward nor outward. It takes time and work but you will be happy in the end.
Q: from Malissa
Date: 07 Feb 2003
Time: 05:26:49
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
When should a Doberman puppy have its ears cropped done surgically? When should
a Dobe start have their ears taped? How long do you continue the taping process?
A: from
Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
If you read the articles at www.dpca-breedered.com/article_menu.htm and the replies to the questions in the Q & A Archives you will see this question has been asked previously and an appropriate response given plus you will be able to find our pages on eartaping. Thank you for visiting our site.
Q: from Laura Brinker
Date: 05 Feb 2003
Time: 19:10:53
Comments: Doberman Health
I don't know if I'm emailing the correct place...but, I need to know more about
the Dobie skin/coat. My new Dobie is 9 months old and his skin looks
prickly/bumpy/rough. It's shiny though. I fear what I may find out. I have him
on Nature's Recipe diet and it has helped but I hope it is not a sign of a much
larger problem. Can you help me with web sites or information from you that will
help? I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks
A: from
Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
I think that you need to put your dog on a regime of Keflex (Cephalexin) 500 mg
3 times a day for a month. It sounds as though your dog is suffering from
folliculitus (spelling) or in layman's terms a staph infection of the hair
follicles.
Of course, I am not a veterinarian, but this disorder is very common for
Dobermans and your dog is at the right age for it's normal onset. You will need
to go to your veterinarian to get the medications.
Now, at least, you have this information to share with your vet.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
You could take a look at the following sites regarding folliculitis:
Q: from Gerry
Date: 29 Jan 2003
Time: 15:50:20
Comments: Pet Insurance
Just a follow up. I've narrowed it down to VPI (www.petinsurance.com) and
Petcare (www.petcareinsurance.com). Does anyone have any experience with either
of these?
A: from
Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
Unfortunately I haven't, not personally. I suspect they are both good companies though. Either one would be infinitely preferable to no insurance at all. <S
Q: from Gerry
Date: 26 Jan 2003
Time: 17:33:10
Comments: Pet Insurance
Yesterday we had to put down my wife's ferret. He was about 8 years old (very
old for a ferret) and had two tumors removed already. To make a long story
short, part of the decision, though not the main concern, to put him down was
financial. This got me thinking about my Dobie, Kane who turned 1 year old on
Monday. If he ever gets seriously ill to the point where I have to make this
kind of decision I don't want financial matters to be a consideration. So I'm
looking at pet insurance. Any pros, cons, recommendations, good or bad, or any
other comments and/or advice would be appreciated.
A:
from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
There are several pet insurances out there. AKC has one on their web site I think. Check into all of the benefits and prices and make your decision.
I think if you can afford the insurance it would be good to have as you don't want to face a major illness or surgery and not be able to pay for it.
*** *** ***
A: from Judy Bohnert, Canada
I know of a few links that he could check out too (see below):
Q: from Lana Rowlison
Date: 25 Jan 2003
Time: 13:17:58
Comments: Reading Pedigrees
Where can I find a listing to explain the different color codes. Just got a new
Dobie and would like to know what these mean: Type 7, Type 8, etc.
A:
from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
You can try either of the following links in order to learn more about color codes: www.dpca-breedered.com/colorinheritance.htm or www.akc.org.
Q: from Sheral Foster
Date: 23 Jan 2003
Time: 19:42:35
Comments: Doberman Health
More on the Dobe with the nasal discharge for 8 plus weeks: I did not mention
that the discharge is mostly from one nostril and at times is quite bloody. She
seems to be doing better on some days and then worse on others. We suspect that
the Leukeran is very hard on her and has some undesirable side effects (the dose
was every other day which coincides with the days she seems worse). We have
changed antibiotics and will have another culture done.
She also takes a variety of holistic medicines including one for the immune
system. She initially had a scope of the nasal passage to rule out tumours.
Should we consider another scope? Our concerns are about the added risk of being
anesthetized. She had been extremely congested and Vicks Nyquil is the only
thing giving her any relief. Hopefully this will help others. Thanks so much for
your response.
A: from
Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Before I would scope her again I'd do another culture of the mucous and see if
there is another antibiotic that would be better to use and find out what the
bacteria is that's causing this. If nothing more is shown on this culture I'd go
ahead and do the scope.
Something is very wrong. Have you made sure there is no possibility of any
foreign matter such as a weed, or seeds that might have migrated up the nostril?
Q: from Linda
Date: 22 Jan 2003
Time: 02:52:46
Comments: Other
What age is to old to cut the ears?
A: from
Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
12 weeks would be my latest age.
Q: from Cherlyn
Date: 21 Jan 2003
Time: 03:11:38
Comments: Doberman Health
My Doberman has lump on his back leg and his chest. They look like a goose egg.
They do not hurt him when touched. What is it?
A: from
Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
They're likely just fat deposits...you never said how old your Doberman is? If he is elderly that may be what they are. If he is young they could be histiocytomas which are benign tumours. Are they hard or soft to the touch?
Q: from Janet Oatney
Date: 20 Jan 2003
Time: 21:13:36
Comments: Dobes & cats
I am currently engaged and will be combining households with my fiancé and his two cats. Neither one of the cats have been around dogs much & my male Doberman (Am/Int Ch CD ROM CGC) does tolerably well with cats that stand up to him.....one big swat & hiss and he will give them a wide berth.
Unfortunately these cats tend to be of the "skittish" variety. My boy is well trained and will listen & respond to my commands, however, he has a an active prey drive. Currently, they are kept apart, we have a large indoor run & outside yard that my guy stays in when I visit & the cats stay shut up when he comes into the main house. My plan is to gradually introduce him, on lead, in a controlled environment. Any suggestions on how to manage the first "introduction" in a way that minimizes conflict?
Realistically, I know that they can never be trusted without supervision, but would like a peaceful "demilitarized zone" household. Any suggestions (other than - forget it <vbg) will be greatly appreciated.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
I don't have any cats but have in
the past. I would most likely keep them separated most of the time since all are
older animals. Now, having said that it's possible that you could introduce them
gradually. I'd keep the dog on a lead while sitting down and let one of the cats
in the room. If the dog becomes aggressive and growls or carries on in a
menacing manner, and the cat would run out of the room, it's not going to be
easy.
If the cat would walk up to the dog (eventually) and the dog just wants to sniff
it and is interested in it, I'd say things might go ok later. Then try the other
cat, putting the first one out of the room. See what happens then. Never let the
dog off lead at first.
If both seem to settle down and pay no attention to each other, let both cats
back in the room and leave when they start ignoring each other, you might let
the dog out at the end of the lead to sniff both. If the cats snarl and bat and
he backs off, but does not become vocal or aggressive I think things will work
out. Do this constantly for several days and once they realize all are going to
stay, I think it would be possible for them to get along. Cats can usually run
and hid or jump up on something to keep out of the dogs way if he becomes
aggressive towards them.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie, USA
I have cats too and this is a method that I have used successfully. We need the cats to learn to trust the dog enough not to run from the dog. I find that if the cats don't run away the dogs learn to ignore them. To do this, I set up the cats in a cage or cages (wire crate is good) in the main room that everybody will be spending relaxing time in while you are watching TV or what have you. Usually during that time the dogs are lying around with you.
Allow the dog to go up to the cage and quietly sniff the cats and then command the dog to take his place (lay down somewhere). Do that for several days and then eventually you will be able to eliminate the cages.
This all takes time but sooner or later the cats will mill around the house with the well mannered dog. The dog will be able someday go to the cats and nose them and the cats just may go up to the dog and do the same. In my household the cats and dogs and I mill around the house together.
I doubt that the cats (if they will be allowed outside) will try to mill around in the dog yard but if they do, your boy may not allow that. They can have the rest of the world but not his yard. Just use your common sense and you can introduce them and live in harmony.
Q: from Sheral Foster
Date: 20 Jan 2003
Time: 19:39:23
Comments: Doberman Health
My Dobe is 9.75 yrs old and has been very healthy, no hip or mobility problems.
She has been having nasal discharge for 8 weeks that has not responded to
steroids (oral and nasal), antibiotics and lastly Leukeran. She does not have a
temp, scope and culture only show inflammation and possible allergy. Any news on
anything like this?
A: from
Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
Sounds like you've done about everything I could suggest for her. An Allergy at this age sounds remote ... however anything is possible I guess. I'd be inclined to do another nasal culture of the discharge and see if there are any changes. Another antibiotic may be the answer. Stay away from any sulpha type drugs as most Dobes cannot tolerate them. Check around your house and yard for anything that may be the culprit just to be sure. How about any food changes although usually these don't cause this type of reaction. Its possible another Vet might give you a second opinion.
Q: from Jim
Date: 17 Jan 2003
Time: 16:16:27
Comments: Doberman Conformation/Handling
Hello, I just discovered this web page and I thank you for the opportunity to
interact with the experts. Here are my questions (more of a comment and then
question):.....I have not been involved long in conformation, just one complete
year but have owned Dobes since 1980. I have tried to educate myself well on the
breed and standard especially with regards to conformation judging. I have
noticed this past year two issues that I find perplexing:
MANY Dobes are much taller than the standard calls for and they are the one's most often seen winning. I've got a dog who is exactly 27 1/2" and he is often smaller than the 6-9 month puppies out there .... why should judges be putting dogs up that are clearly not in the standard? Is there any effort to educate them or direct them to take notice of this?
Also, this past year MANY dogs are winning with the ski-slope back. Most seem to be out of one particular stud dog. In fact, some are at such an angle that I've seen them walked on the go-around because they have absolutely no drive yet the judges seem to favour this sort of topline every time one of these dogs competes. Do they not know this severely angled topline should be looked upon unfavourably rather than favourably? When I look back to many years past and compare the toplines then to today's dogs, I can almost see the Dobe becoming more like a GSD with that severe angle of topline and crouching back legs.
I have talked with other
owners/breeders and they have voiced similar sentiments so I don't think it's
because I'm relatively new to conformation. Could you please comment on this and
what is being done to better educate the judges?
Thanks again, I appreciate the opportunity to voice my thoughts.
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie, USA
I will take a stab at answering your questions. Yes there is something being done to educate the judges within the DPCA. Go to http://www.DPCA.org site and click onto the Judges Education link for some information. They are trying to teach the judges our standard and how to judge to our standard. They try to teach what is correct and that the judge must decide what dog is the closest conforming to the standard with the deviations penalized to the extent of the deviation.
As far as height goes, a 27 1/2 inch male is ideal. The size for males ranges from 26" to 28", so a 28" dog is within the standard. A 28 1/4 inch dog is a deviation, but just one. Your number 2 example is a present problem in our breed right now and it seems to be in constant discussion around the country.
We are having a problem in our breed with the second thigh bone being longer than the upper thigh bone and they are suppose to be equal. The upper and the lower thigh bone are also supposed to be equal to the shoulder blade and the upper arm for the forequarters and rear quarters to be in balance to one another. For me this deviation creates many deviations to our standard, all of them you mention in your comments.
Every year the DPCA's Judges Education committee puts on a 2 day seminar to educate people who want to become Doberman judges and people who are already judging Dobermans. It is a pretty good seminar according to the attendees and as compared to other seminars that they attend. They spend a great deal of time studying the standard and its interpretation.
The DPCA has a mentoring program for people who are judging the Doberman and for those who want to judge the Doberman. Speaking of the mentoring program, you can suggest to the mentoring program chairperson (the name is on the Judges Education link) a judge that you may think needs more mentoring. You should be able to give a reason why.
I will say, however that a judge can only judge what is brought before him/her. One judge, this year at the national, commented that sometimes when they are judging that they do not see any dog that they would like to see and they have to choose the one that is the closest to the standard in their opinion.
I realize that I may not have answered this very well. All I can say is that there is an educational program out there for the judges and the breeders that is trying to get breeders to learn the standard and breed to the standard as they understand it and the judges to judge our Dobermans to the standard too. In fact, that is what this Breeders Education site is all about and also the breeders seminars that we put on at the nationals each year. The goal is to get everybody onto the same page which is the standard and not deviate from the standard at all. We cannot breed or judge what we like in a Doberman unless it is in the standard.
I hope this helps some.
Q: from Jenny Scott
Date: 15 Jan 2003
Time: 19:52:38
Comments: Yorkie
How old should Yorkie males be before they are used for breeding?
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
No male of any breed should be used at stud or bred before all the required health testing has been done at least and then only the best quality of dog should be used. There are far too many unwanted dogs in shelters already.
Q: from Bob
Date: 15 Jan 2003
Time: 18:16:09
Comments: Chewing & Rawhides
Are rawhide bones good for Dobermans? I get mixed opinions - some say they are
and some not. Also, is it true that rawhide manufactured outside the US is not
safe. It does not seem possible/how could it get past USDA etc.? What is a good
chewing alternative to rawhide for Dobies.
A: from Judy Bohnert, Equinox, Canada
There is nothing wrong with rawhide bones for dogs in my opinion. I have given them to my dogs for years. However, I watch them closely as they are chewing them in case the rawhide gets to the size that can be swallowed whole then I take it away from the dog thus avoiding a blockage.
I was told some years ago by a woman that ran a pet shop that the bulk white rawhides are cured with arsenic and since I have no idea if it is true or not I simply err on the side of caution and only give my dogs the bulk yellow ones.
Q: from Jonathan Moore
Date: 06 Jan 2003
Time: 23:55:06
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
I have just recently tried to stud my Dobe out. He is just at a year and he
could not perform his duty. The breeder brought both him and the female to a Vet
where they tried artificially impregnating the female. The attempts to get sperm
from my male failed. What do you think is the problem? The vet said since he is
babied that might have something to do with it. Thank you for your response.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
If he is over 10 months it can be done...however waiting until he is well over a year is much better.
With most virgin males, they are much smarter than we are in predicting the ovulation time of the bitch. Many will not be at all interested and if they seem to be and mount they can't find "where to put it" or which end to use. Most of the time breeders try their dogs too early.
My advice is to try Morning and Evening until her 20th day. I'd only let them try for 15 -20 minutes at the most. If they are still not interested, separate them.
A-I's don't usually work if the male
is not interested for the reasons I've stated above. However, most Vets who do
this often can usually obtain the sperm for the insemination. Rarely in these
cases does the bitch get pregnant. SHE JUST ISN'T READY.
I would like to think that you and the breeder will wait until both are old
enough to get all the necessary health testing done BEFORE breeding. OFA cannot
be done until after the dogs are 2 years of age.
Q: from Sonni Butterfield
Date: 05 Jan 2003
Time: 18:51:06
Comments: Breeding the Doberman
Would you recommend breeding a rust and black female that is 18 months old to a
red male that is 7 years old?
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
We are not in a position to
recommend any breedings but if you are referring to the age difference, that
should not be a problem.
The only factor is that a bitch only 18 months old is still not old enough to
have her hips and elbows x-rayed for submission to OFA (Orthopedic Foundation of
America). I would certainly wait until after 2 years of age to breed her. Both
the sire and the dam should have OFA's, Cardio tests by EKG and Ultrasound,
Chest X-rays, Vetgen vWD DNA testing and a full Thyroid panel done as well as a
general health check-up. Any and all breeding stock should be health tested
prior to breeding in order to be a reputable, responsible breeder.
I would also suggest having the male's sperm tested and his prostate checked before breeding to make sure he is still fertile and has no prostate problems.
Q: from Debra Mahan
Date: 03 Jan 2003
Time: 23:31:08
Comments: Doberman Health
I have a 13 year old fawn male Doberman (you know, the genetic throw-back ones).
His health is not very well and never has been. He has always had dry, flaky
skin and thin hair.
I started putting olive oil on his food and he loved it and it almost immediately increased his skin condition from bad to good. He is getting on up in years and his skin is getting bad again. He has numerous bumps, small and large, all over his body. They are just under the skin. He does have some fatty tumors but I had them tested and they are benign.
What I need to know is what is the usual life expectancy of Dobermans, especially the fawn ones? I am going to be moving and don't know if I can take him with me but I don't have the heart to put him down. He is such a good baby and has such a wonderful personality. Please give me your thoughts.
A: from Judy Doniere, Toledobes, USA
PLEASE don't put your companion down
if he is in otherwise good health. All
old dogs may have benign lumps and bumps. If it's a staph infection, your
Vet can give you medication to clear it.
As to how old a "fawn" can be
expected to live…it makes no difference because of color. Your boy has lived a
nice long life and may live another year or so. Just because you are intending
to move should not be a reason to disregard your faithful companion. That would
be like getting rid of a child that might cause a little inconvenience in
moving.
He doesn't have too many more days, months, years left, so please give him the
love and attention he deserves in the meantime.
*** *** ***
A: from Marj Brooks, Manorie Dobermans, USA
A 13 year old Doberman! Wow, you have a gift! You are soooooooooo lucky to have a healthy 13 year old Doberman. The coat condition with the fawn color is common with fawns and blues. There is an article in the breeders web site about the blues and fawn and their coats. The fatty tumors just come with age.
The average life expectancy in a
Doberman is approximately 8 - 9 years of age. Many Dobermans do live to be over
that age. The older guys are so wonderful, in my opinion. Please keep your old
guy until it is time to let him go. You will happy that you did.
I had a male Doberman that lived to be 15 plus before I lost him to lung cancer.
I wanted him to live until he was at least 20 years of age. He was strong and
went out to get the daily paper and chased the ball and the sticks until he had
to go to the Rainbow Bridge. I enjoyed every second of the time that I had with
that wise old dog.
HOME : ARCHIVES Page 1 : ARCHIVES Page 2 : ARCHIVES Page 3 : ARCHIVES Page 4 : ARCHIVES Page 5 : ARCHIVES Page 6 : ARCHIVES Page 7 : ARCHIVES Page 8 : ARCHIVES Page 9 : ARCHIVES Page 10 : ARCHIVES Page 11 : ARCHIVES Page 12 : ARCHIVES Page 13 : ARCHIVES Page 14 : ARCHIVES Page 15 : CURRENT